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Help support families caring for loved ones with autism. 

Brad Avery

In an effort to reach out to the Latino community, the Autism Alliance of MetroWest has launched a new Spanish-language phone line in order to better provide non-English speaking families with support and information.

The non-profit organization, which aids autistic children via educational programs, support groups and community events, was able to launch the new phone line thanks to a grant from the Foundation for MetroWest's Fund for Families. Before receiving the grant, the Alliance relied on volunteers to translate newsletters and handle Spanish-language phone calls. Now the Alliance has hired a full-time bilingual staff member to handle those responsibilities.

"The language barrier is a significant problem," said Allison Daigle, co-director of the Autism Alliance. "We need to be able to get info from families. The new phone line is just the beginning step. It's important to maximize their opportunities. We want to empower families."

According to a press release issued by the Alliance, the organization has worked with more than 150 Spanish-speaking families since it began its outreach into the Latino community two years ago. With the new phone line and bilingual staff member, the Alliance hopes to increase that number, citing that according to census data there are nearly 1,100 Latino families in the area who may be caring for a family member with autism without support.

Source: 
MetroWest Daily News